Castle Acre Priory
Swaffham - PE32 2XD
Bookings: 01223 582732
One of the best preserved and finely decorated monastic sites in England.
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After the monks
Key Stage: 2, History
Henry VIII has given the Manor of Castle Acre to the Duke of Norfolk after the Dissolution in 1537. The priory is an important feature in the village, providing employment for many. Join the Duke of Norfolk as he inspects it and discover the impact of the Dissolution of the monasteries on the lives of rich and ordinary people in Tudor England. A mixture of tours and hands-on activities at this beautiful site.
When: Weekdays during term time by arrangement
Duration: 1½ hours -
Crafty Castle Acre
Key Stage: 1,2 Art & Design
Use this beautiful site to inspire creativity! By looking at the decorations on stonework and tiles, collect ideas for your own design and make your own decorative tile. Interactive and practical sessions will increase understanding of the skills of medieval craftsmen and the significance of the decorations they created.
When: By arrangement. Thursday, Friday and Monday
Duration: 1½ hours -
Medieval realms
Key Stage: 1,2,3 History
Now a picturesque village, Castle Acre was once a major settlement with a castle and priory. The castle, priory, bailey gate and some of the town defences still survive, offering a great opportunity to explore a medieval settlement. Discover the history of the town through story telling. Hear about the characters who lived there and find out how church and castle co-existed. Based at the Priory, resources are also provided to aid exploration of the castle and town.
Extra time required to explore the castle and village before or afterwards. Sessions can be adapted for different age groups and form the ideal basis for local study at KS 2 or for the study of political power from the middle ages to the 20th century.
When: 1½ hours
Duration: Weekdays during term time by arrangement
